Children with disabilities and special needs often rely on assistive technology devices to communicate and learn. Assistive devices are those that allow children to hear, see and understand through various tools that range from equipment to services. Assistive technology provides independence and availability to children who otherwise may not be able to partake in certain activities, according to the nonprofit organization Parents, Let's Unite for Kids.
Legislation
The first Assistive Technology Act was passed in 1998. According to the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities, the legislation is intended to increase visibility and awareness of the many forms of assistive technology available. It aims to provide accessibility to all people with disabilities in education from kindergarten through 12th grade. It also promotes assistive technology uses in rehabilitation services and other social agency programs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, first passed in 1975, ensures that all children, regardless of their disabilities, receive appropriate educational opportunities. IDEA was updated in 2006 to include specific guidelines.
Types
Devices used to augment the abilities that children do possess allow children to communicate more effectively. They may include speech-synthesizing equipment, keyboards with pictures, Braille keyboards, or amplified speakers. Assistive technology may be offered electronically, through web-based programs, or through manual tools, according to Parents, Let's Unite for Kids.
Features
Assistive technology is bolstered through advances made on the Internet and computers. According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, options and choices are widely available to children, educators and their families. Consumers often are overwhelmed with the products and services they can get for their disabled children. Government, social and self-help resources are available to sort through the maze of features available so you can find the best tools for your child's specific needs.
Considerations
Consider the various skill sets of the child when deciding which technology tools are most appropriate to help him enhance communication. According to the National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities, it's important for you, as a parent or educator, to take into consideration a child's motor skills and visual tracking abilities. Consider the child's attention span, her desire to learn new ways to communicate, and her ability to understand commands and direction.
Preparation
Children who are not socially or emotionally capable of using computer-assisted technology or other complicated learning devices can take advantage of toys and games that introduce them to assistive technology tools. Simple and inexpensive toys that teach children how to flip a switch or listen for changes in a recording can prepare them for more complicated communication and educational applications.
References
- National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities: Assistive Technology Act
- National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities: Assistive Technology
- National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities: IDEA
- American Academy of Pediatricians: Prescribing Assistive Technology
- Parents, Let's Unite for Kids: Family Guide to Assistive Technology
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